Ermao Roast Chicken (二毛烧鸡) - Heping Branch

Ermao Roast Chicken (二毛烧鸡) - Heping Branch is an outlet of the two-centuries-old Ermao roast chicken lineage from Daming County, at 48 Tushanqian Street in Congtai District, Handan, in southern Hebei province. The brand is recognised as an intangible cultural heritage food and is known for Daming-style spice-braised roast chicken, in which whole birds are fried and then simmered in a spice broth that is kept alive and replenished continuously, tracing back to the original shop. The signature product is the whole spice-braised roast chicken (烧鸡), priced at about 38 to 68 yuan, with a half portion available at about 20 to 36 yuan. The meat is tender enough to fall from the bone, with a deep, mildly spiced flavour and a golden-brown skin that carries the aroma of the braising broth. The branch operates mainly as a takeaway and casual eatery rather than a formal restaurant: customers buy a whole or half bird, often chopped and boxed to carry, and the space has simple tables for those who eat in. The atmosphere is brisk and informal, with a steady stream of local customers and a casual dress code. There is no specific beverage programme beyond tea, soft drinks and beer sold nearby. The branch is open from about 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. Reservations are not taken for tables, although whole chickens can be pre-ordered by phone for pickup, which is useful during holidays and for large orders. The roast chicken is also a popular gift item in Handan, and visitors often buy a vacuum-packed bird to take home. Prices are low, so a meal for two costs only a few US dollars, which makes the branch a good introduction to a regional heritage food.